Peace Talks Advance as US Sends Envoys to Russia, Ukraine

Washington: The United States is preparing to send representatives to Russia and Ukraine as part of ongoing efforts to advance peace talks over the conflict in Ukraine. Envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet Russian officials in Moscow, while Army Secretary Dan Driscoll will meet Ukrainian authorities. The discussions aim to find common ground despite differences over territorial and security issues.

The US- backed proposal has been revised to streamline the process, focusing on points directly related to Ukraine, though the details continue to evolve. European leaders have welcomed the renewed momentum, with France and the UK convening a virtual coalition to support monitoring of a potential ceasefire. Delegates emphasise that any agreement’s viability will depend on enforceable security measures, and that finalising the deal will require careful negotiation.

Meanwhile, military actions continue on both sides. Russia launched missile and drone strikes on Kyiv, damaging buildings and infrastructure and causing multiple casualties. Ukraine conducted drone attacks on Russia’s southern Krasnodar region, targeting industrial and military facilities. These ongoing exchanges underline the urgency of reaching a workable settlement to reduce further civilian and infrastructural impact.